What is Donut Day?

This tradition dates back to World War I, when nearly 250 Salvation Army volunteers traveled overseas to provide emotional and spiritual support, fried confectionary, clothes and supplies to troops. For more than a century, the organization has continued to provide snacks, hydration, and comfort to the first responders and front-line workers. National Donut Day was first celebrated in Chicago in 1938 to help the needy during the Great Depression and commemorate the work of the "donut lassies" who served soldiers during World War I. Today the first Friday in June each year marks an important date in American food history and raises awareness for the critical services that The Salvation Army provides to those in need each day. 

Donut Day Facts:

- The Salvation Army started National Donut Day during the Great Depression as a way to raise funds and bring awareness to The Salvation Army's social services programs

- National Donut Day commemorates the "Donut Lassies", female Salvation Army volunteers who provide writing supplies, stamps, clothes-mending and home-cooked meals, and of course, donuts for soldiers on the front lines.

- Approximately 250 Salvation Army volunteers provided assistance to American soldiers in France starting in 1917 during WWI. 

- With limited resources, these treats were fried, only seven at a time. The Salvation Army's Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance cleverly thought of frying donuts in soldier's helmets.